The Internet is another place to meet single men, but most of us know the pitfalls of online dating. It's best to join a reputable site like Match.com or eHarmony instead of wasting your time in random chat rooms fending off the unwanted advances of men who aren't worth your time.

Find out if your city has a local chapter of Parents Without Partners. This organization provides support and encouragement for single parents. While it's not a dating club, you can meet lots of new people through meetings, and finding a prospective partner there isn't out of the question.

You never know where you'll run into a great guy. It can be everyday spots like the grocery store, Laundromat, or coffee shop. Be friendly and approachable and keep your options open.

Tips For Re-Entering the Dating Scene

• Be realistic. You should definitely have an idea of what kind of man you want in your life, but don't create an image of a perfect Prince Charming that nobody can live up to. At the same time, don't idealize a less-than-perfect guy, glossing over his faults. Instead, take a realistic view and decide which positive attributes you want in a guy and which faults you're willing to overlook.

• Accept yourself. If it's been awhile since you've dated, you probably notice that you don't look the same as you did back then. For many of us, that's an understatement. Kids and time change our bodies in ways that can sometime be undone, and sometimes can't. Getting a makeover can be helpful for your appearance and self esteem, so if you want to get one, go for it. Do as much as your budget and personal preference allows, and have a good time. Just don't beat yourself up for not looking the way you did at 18. Everyone has something to offer. Let your best self shine through.